STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
Stormwater management is a critical part of keeping our water safe and clean. It’s not just for large construction sites; we all can help keep the water clean by following rules, avoiding pollutants and making sure our water goes where it is supposed to when it rains.
Bethel Park has a municipal separate storm sewer system (also called MS4), which is permitted through the Department of Environmental Protection. This means the community’s stormwater flows out to the local creeks and waterways, not through the same drains as the sewage from our bathrooms and laundry rooms.
To help keep our storm system and local waterways clean, there are several tips posted for residents below. Some of the tips might not seem water-related— including limiting use of lawn fertilizers or rock salt for icy sidewalks—but are important for reducing pollutant in our waterways. Protecting our local waterways and reducing pollutant discharges is a community-wide effort and we appreciate your cooperation!
Stormwater Management Ordinance:
In August 2018, Bethel Park approved an ordinance stating that, beginning in 2018, new impervious surfaces (i.e. pavement, concrete, gravel) constructed over 400 square feet must meet requirements to temporarily detain stormwater, restore natural infiltration, and mitigate downstream flooding. This ordinance was required by the Department of Environmental Protection and adopted by other MS4 communities throughout the state. For more information regarding stormwater permitting requirements, please contact our engineering department at 412-831-6800 ext. 302.
MS4 Prohibited Discharge Ordinance
Dumping into the storm sewer is prohibited in Bethel Park. No person shall dump or discharge material into the MS4 or waterway that is not composed entirely of stormwater unless authorized by the Municipality or the state. If you see someone dumping into a sewer or waterway, please call the office at 412-831-6800.
MS4 Related Information
